Whip Hoyer Elected House Majority Leader, Releases 2019 House Calendar

I am deeply honored to have been chosen by my Democratic colleagues to return to the position of House Majority Leader in the 116th Congress. I look forward to serving our Caucus and working with my colleagues to deliver results for the American people. The Democratic Majority will be focused on lowering health care and prescription drug costs, raising wages and strengthening our economy so every family can Make It In America, and returning to a government that is of, by, and for the people. As Majority Leader-elect, I released the 2019 House calendar this week, which is focused on balancing time in Washington with time for Members to conduct work in their districts, serve their constituents, and spend time with their families. Beginning in January, the Democratic-led House will tackle the challenges facing our nation and work to make real progress for our people.

Next week, Congress has four legislative days left to fund the government ahead of the December 7 deadline, and Congressional Republicans still do not have a responsible plan to keep government open. President Trump continues to demand funding for his costly and ineffective border wall. While Democrats support border security, there is bipartisan agreement that a border wall is not an effective use of taxpayer dollars. Republicans still control all levers of government and are responsible for avoiding another Republican-led shutdown. I urge Republicans to work on a bipartisan basis to responsibly fund government instead of holding funding hostage to extreme demands.

In addition, I continue to encourage Americans to sign up for health coverage on HealthCare.gov during the open enrollment period, which lasts through December 15. The Trump Administration has taken unprecedented steps to sabotage the Affordable Care Act and make it harder for Americans to enroll, which has resulted in fewer Americans signing up for coverage. Eight in ten Americans who buy coverage through HealthCare.gov are eligible for plans that cost them less than $75 a month. I encourage all Americans to sign up before the deadline to review your options and find a plan that fits your needs.

Sincerely yours,
Steny H. Hoyer

P.S. Please invite your friends and family to sign up for this newsletter to learn about what House Democrats are doing to lead America in a new direction. You can also get the latest updates and join the conversation on my Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.